Don't rule out a second election - it could bring stability to the new order

Enda Kenny, who will take his place in the 32nd Dáil when it meets for the first time today. The Dáil will have a very changed make-up, featuring as it does a kaleidoscope of small parties and Independents alongside the two Civil War parties that have dominated it for so long Photo: Mark Condren

Don't rule out a second election - it could bring stability to the new order

Independent.ie

'There is nothing more difficult to take in hand, more perilous to conduct, or more uncertain in its success, than to take the lead in the introduction of a new order of things." So said one of the canniest political operators who has ever lived. Indeed, one could say that Niccolo Machiavelli wrote the book - literally - on how to acquire and exercise political power.

'There is nothing more difficult to take in hand, more perilous to conduct, or more uncertain in its success, than to take the lead in the introduction of a new order of things." So said one of the canniest political operators who has ever lived. Indeed, one could say that Niccolo Machiavelli wrote the book - literally - on how to acquire and exercise political power.

As the 32nd Dáil meets today, there is a new order - or disorder - in Irish politics. The duopoly of the two Civil War parties is over. A kaleidoscope of small parties and dozens of Independents will take their seats in Leinster House's main chamber later today.

While it is abundantly clear that things have changed a great deal, it is very far from clear what the change means, or who will take the lead in shaping the new order. But one thing that should not be ruled out is an early return to the polls.

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